T20 WC-bound Indian players to be rested, Shikhar Dhawan to return as captain: Sources

Team India are set to play South Africa in three ODIs ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia, and according to sources, veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan is slated to return as the skipper for the ODI team after their three T20Is from September 28-October 4. The selected squad will leave for Australia on October 5 after the T20I series, and with a second-string side to face the Proteas in the ODIs.

In addition to this, the sources also revealed that VVS Laxman has been asked to take over as the head coach for the South Africa series. "Since the main squad will be preparing for the T20Is and are set to leave for Australia on October 5, Dhawan will lead the team along with VVS as the coach. It's been discussed with the team management to allow the T20 squad to leave for their preparation for the World Cup," the source said.

The Men in Blue will play two back-to-back series, starting with a T20I series against Australia and then the limited overs series against South Africa. The source also added that this is the main reason for the side being given a break right before the World Cup.

"The team that played the Asia Cup have most of the players who will be a part of the World Cup team as well. So they will be given some rest, while the selectors might call up some players from the India A team for the South Africa series. Both formats are different and the team will be playing warm-ups there so they will get to know the wicket and will be in rhythm. This will also curb their injury risks.

Talking about India's performance in the Asia Cup, the source said, "We have discussed everything and we know what the loopholes are. The team will work on it. Asia Cup was an eye opener and I am sure each player is now aware of their roles and goal."